Mineral dust airway disease


Mineral dust airway disease is a general term used to describe complications due to inhaled mineral dust causing fibrosis and narrowing of primarily the respiratory bronchioles. It is a part of a group of disorders known as pneumoconioses which is characterized by inhaled mineral dust and the effects on the lungs.
Types: The three main types of pneumoconioses are Asbestosis, Silicosis, and Coal Workers pneumoconioses A.K.A Black Lung. There are other forms called Mixed Dust pneumoconioses and Byssinosis. These two forms are less common and doctors do not often encounter them. Other forms can develop from inhaling a number of different minerals including but not limited to; aluminum, antimony, barium, graphite, iron, kaolin, mica, and talc.
Causes: Breathing in or inhaling inorganic dust.
Symptoms: Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Coughing.
Exams & Tests: Chest X-ray, CT scan of the chest, Pulmonary function tests.
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